‘It becomes very difficult’ – R Ashwin believes MS Dhoni’s comeback could hamper CSK’s winning combination

Former India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes there are little to no chances of MS Dhoni featuring in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL), as it can affect the team composition during the crucial run-in towards the end of the season. 

The five-time champions are currently sixth in the standings, having picked up 10 points from 10 games and are currently just two points away from entering the playoff positions. 

With CSK in with a realistic chance of qualifying for the playoffs, Ashwin does not want Dhoni to come in and spoil a match-winning combination. The former player-turned-pundit, however, believes that the legendary wicket-keeper could get a farewell match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium if his side are out of the playoff reckoning. 

“If MS Dhoni comes, then the combination will be changed. It becomes very difficult, so I think there are very slim chances [of making a comeback]. If they lose two of their next three games, then he might get a farewell game in Chennai,” R Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. 

It is worth mentioning that if Dhoni does get a farewell game at Chepauk, it would very well be their game against the Sunrisers Hyderabad on Monday, May 18, since it is their final home game of the 2026 season.

Despite officially still being part of the squad, Dhoni has yet to feature in a single game as he continues to nurse his calf injury. The 44-year-old is slowly approaching the end of his illustrious IPL career in what looks like his final season representing the Chennai-based side. 

CSK have found some form heading into the important final few matches of the regular season. Ruturaj Gaikwad’s side has won back-to-back matches in the IPL to be close to securing a playoff berth. Their most recent win came against the Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where they won by eight wickets.